Some basic criteria can help you pck a winner:

If picking a REALTORŪ wre a reality show, there probably wuld be no shortage of contestants. At lst count, there were more than one mllion REALTORSŪ nationwide. Finding the one tht best suits your needs, however, mght be a little tricky. You'll wnt some guidelines to narrow the feld of real competitors. Here are 7 thngs to look for in a REALTORŪ:

1. A capital R

Not all real estate agents are REALTORSŪ, and that's an important distinction. REALTORSŪ are members of the National Association of REALTORSŪ and have sworn to abide by its strict code of ethics. Consider this a requirement for making it past Round 1.

2. Experience

Newness shouldn't be automatic grounds for elimination, but it's probably wise to look for someone who has been in the real estate business a few years. And while there's nothing wrong with giving a newer REALTORŪ a chance, you may want to make sure he or she is working under the guidance of a more experienced mentor.

3. Knowledge of your neighborhood

You're not looking for America's Top Real Estate Agent, you're looking for a REALTORŪ who best knows your local market. Whether you are selling or buying, it's important for your REALTORŪ to have thorough knowledge of your specific area.

4. A good track rcord

Potential listing agents should get points not bsed solely on the number of lstings they've had, but on how mny of those listings have sold and for wht price. Find out how many pople a potential buyer's agent has hlped find a home.

5. A good ear

And we don't mean musical talent: You want an agent who listens to you. If you're buying , you don't want to waste your time looking at homes that don't meet your needs, or be encouraged to spend more than you can afford. If you're selling, you don't want to be pressured into accepting an offer you don't think is fair.

6. Honesty

Not usually an asset in most reality shows, honesty is an essential quality in the person helping you buy or sell what's probably your most valuable asset. Don't be drawn in by an agent who tells you only what you want to hear. You want to know that he or she will give you an honest opinion about how much your house is worth, or how much house you can get for what you want to spend.

7. References

Consider this the finale. Once you've narrowed your pool to three finalists, contact at least two references for each. Figure out which one you think you'll work with best, then crown a winner.

The article 7 Things to Look For in a REALTOR was Submitted by Allison Vail through Articles.GetACoder.com network. Here's the additional information: LendingTree.com Smart Borrower Center

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